The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a deadly kidnapping syndicate terrorizing communities along the Federal Capital Territory–Nasarawa border, arresting two suspected members and recovering an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and livestock.
In a statement issued Tuesday by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, police said the breakthrough followed intelligence-led operations carried out between June 24 and 26, 2026.
Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Special Tactical Squad, FID-STS, arrested Buhari Adamu, 25, and Abubakar Saidu, 28, during coordinated raids in Gbagalape, FCT, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, and Abuja.
The suspects are believed to have played active roles in multiple violent attacks, kidnappings, and murders within the FCT–Nasarawa axis.
Preliminary investigations link the syndicate to the May 16, 2026 attack on Gbagalape Community, a border settlement between the FCT and Nasarawa State.
During that assault, several residents were abducted, while others were killed or sustained gunshot injuries. Police said multiple victims were later murdered after ransom demands were made.
Following the arrests, operatives stormed the gang’s hideout at Gbagalape Hills. Recovered items include:
- 1 AK-47 rifle22 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition14 cows and 3 sheep suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities
The suspects have made statements aiding ongoing investigations, while efforts continue to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to intensifying intelligence-led operations against violent criminal networks nationwide. He commended FID-STS operatives for their professionalism and resilience.
The IGP also urged the public to continue supporting the Police with “timely and credible information capable of aiding crime prevention and detection.”
The FCT–Nasarawa border corridor has seen repeated kidnapping incidents in recent years, with armed gangs exploiting the rugged terrain and proximity to Abuja to stage attacks before retreating into Nasarawa.
